A sad loss for comedy, Barry Cryer was a true champion of new and emerging talent, his help and guidance shaped much of British comedy for the last 50 years, a most generous and selfless man who would go out of his way to help and advise, probably the most respected and liked man in the business, he was known for his loyalty to those who suffered personal and professional setbacks and was the go to person for so many in times of trouble offering candid but fair support.
His skin condition held him back as a performer but enabled him to diversify and be a chameleon writer whose work bridged several generations and comedic styles. A generous and tireless supporter of good causes, his work always punched up and although the word legend is much misused it's entirely appropriate in the case Barry Cryer, a life that gave many those most precious of gifts, fun and laughter.